How to Plant Potted Easter Lilies

Overview

The Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum) is probably the most popular species of lily to be grown indoors. The fragrant, trumpet-shaped, white blossoms of the Easter lily bloom throughout the summer atop 3-foot stems. (Plants that bloom during Easter have been forced for sale). Easter lilies can be repotted or replanted in a garden bed after the foliage yellows and the stems die back in the fall, providing blooms for next summer.

Step 1

Purchase bulbs that are round and firm in the autumn. Do not purchase bulbs that are shriveled or soft.

Step 2

Plant each Easter lily bulb in a 6-inch pot. Fill the pot with enough compost to cover the bulb tip with 1½ to 2 inches immediately after purchase.

Step 3

Place the pot in a cold, dark location. A lily's main requirements are cold nights and ample space to grow.

Step 4

Water the bulb regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist after planting and throughout the entire growing season.

Step 5

Move the pot to a brightly lit location, out of direct sunlight, when the first shoots become visible.